Conflict in the Middle East and Food Security - Press Conference

Press conference by Máximo Torero, Chief Economist, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), on the conflict in the Middle East and the implications for food security.

• Categories: Media / Press Conferences
• Video Length: 00:27:14
• Production Date: 26 March 2026
• Asset Language: English
• Corporate Name: FOOD AND AGRICULTURE ORGANIZATION - FAO
• Subject Topical: HUNGER; FOOD SECURITY; FOOD CROPS; FOOD DISTRIBUTION; FOOD INDUSTRY; FOOD SHORTAGE; FOOD SYSTEMS; FOOD SUPPLY; WAR; MIDDLE EAST SITUATION; TRANSPORT SYSTEMS; MARITIME TRANSPORT; GOODS TRANSPORT; MALNUTRITION; DESTRUCTION OF PROPERTY; FERTILIZERS; AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTS; AGRICULTURAL ECONOMICS
• Geographic Subject: MIDDLE EAST; PERSIAN GULF REGION
• MAMS Id: 3549002
• Parent Id: 3548659

Description

Máximo Torero, Chief Economist, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), discusses a new FAO report "Global Agrifood Implications of the 2026 Conflict in the Middle East" 

The escalation of conflict in the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Middle East has sharply increased risks to global energy, fertilizer, and agrifood systems. The Strait of Hormuz, a critical chokepoint for oil, gas, and fertilizers, has already seen disruptions that are raising energy and agricultural input costs worldwide. Fertilizer shortages and higher energy prices threaten crop yields, while remittance losses and potential shifts to biofuel production could amplify food price volatility, particularly in Africa, Asia, and other import-dependent regions. 

Immediate measures such as developing alternative trade routes, strengthening market monitoring, providing financial support for farmers, and offering targeted aid for vulnerable countries are needed to stabilize supply chains. 

Longer-term strategies should focus on domestic agriculture, sustainable fertilizer production, renewable energy, and structural adjustments, while diplomatic efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz remain essential to safeguard global energy and food security. 

Related Sites and Documents

Global Agrifood Implications of the 2026 Conflict in the Middle East

Report: Global Agrifood Implications of the 2026 Conflict in the Middle East